Amongst all the permanent things in life lies the presence of scars. Formed during the healing process of a deep wound or gash, scars tend to make or break a person. While plenty of them shy away from embracing the purpose of each scar, loads of them celebrate their existence through the means of getting a tattoo over the scar.
Even though we do support both scenarios mentioned in the previous paragraph, we can’t help but feel concerned for those that cover their scars with tattoos. While it is visually presentable and definitely suppresses the esteem issues of a wearer, many people forget to ask themselves the most basic questions before visiting a tattoo artist. One of the very many important questions is along the lines of “Can You Tattoo Over A Scar?”
Furthermore, if you happen to be one of the people who’s in a similar situation, and can’t help but feel lost about whether or not one can get a tattoo over their gash, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we will inform you about scenarios in which you can get a tattoo over your scar, and scenarios that will render you incapable of getting one. We hope you’re able to get the answers to all your questions within this write-up and enjoy going through all the materials it contains.
Contents
Are You Really Allowed To Tattoo Over A Scar?
Well, the answer to that depends on the type of scar and what your doctor as well as tattoo artist feel about it. Although most scars can definitely be covered with a tattoo containing great visuals, getting assistance from an experienced tattoo artist will surely allow the wearer to achieve exceptional results, as long as the tattoo artist is comfortable with painting over the gash.
In addition to the opinion of and skillset that your source has, the type of scar you have often plays a crucial role in the decision making process. For instance, if you have scars that are extremely deep, not only will the process involve more pain than that of an average scar tattoo, but the procedure will also be extremely time consuming. Two prime examples of deep scars could be keloid scars and burn scars.
On the other hand, if the scar you’re planning to cover is compact and isn’t as intense as the pain of a deep gash, you can definitely give yourself the greenlight without feeling the need to take the opinion of another.
In conclusion, while it will be uncomfortable and painful to cover even the smallest cut, YOU ABSOLUTELY CAN tattoo over your scar and get it done whenever you please. However, there are loads of things you should consider before having a go at it.
Why People Get Tattoos Over Their Scars
A person might get a tattoo to cover their scar due to various reasons.
One of them could be to enhance the appearance of the visuals that the scar contains. Since the initial shape of the scar depends on the cut itself, there’s not much one can do but to change the shape of it. However, changing the outlook through the assistance of a tattoo will not make the scar look more apparent, but also manages to make the wearer embrace the scar and feel more connected with how it looks.
Another major reason behind replacing scars with a tattoo could be due to irreparable damage that the person attains through the scar. More often than not, one fails to realize how those with scars aren’t just dealing with the physical aspect of the scar, but also fighting a battle against the trauma that was caused by the scar on the inside. To minimize the effects of the trauma and kick start their road to recovery, many resort to getting the wound covered through the means of a tattoo with visuals that the wearer resonates with.
More Things To Consider Before Making Your Decision
While the sentimental value should be more than enough as an incentive, there are loads of other things one needs to take into consideration before making the right decision. From the type of scar that the person has to the shape of the wound, here are the series of factors one needs to think about prior to getting a tattoo.
- The Status Of The Scar
Making sure that your scar is fully healed before you cover it with a tattoo is immensely important. A good rule of thumb would be to wait at least 6 months to a year if the scar is small, 2-3 years if the scar is relatively larger than that of a small scar, and wait at least 5 years if the scar is severe. Failing to do so will rupture the scar and its healing process, restarting the recovery period as a result. It can get even worse, as many people might suffer from more scars if they are seeking assistance from an inexperienced tattoo artist.
- The Type of Scar You Have
As mentioned earlier, the type of scar you have can determine the outcome of the experience. Those seeking to cover minor scars can surely expect a lenient process with great tattoos. In contrast to that, those with keloid scars should play it safe before installing such an impactful body modification.
As keloid scars are severely damaged and require an enormous amount of time to recuperate, tattooing over it will not just be uncomfortable, but can even result in more scarring, especially if it doesn’t get enough time to heal. For that reason, it is extremely important to visit your surgeon, your doctor, and reach out to the best tattoo artist possible to refrain from entering unfortunate scenarios.
- The Shape of Your Scar
A scar comes in all shapes and sizes, and yours shouldn’t be an exception. Take the layout of the scar into account and inform the tattoo parlor about it. Let them know about the kind of tattoo you’d like to achieve as well. Doing so will allow the team to have a better understanding of your situation, while allowing them to come up with tattoo designs that will cater to your taste.
- The Sensitivity of Your Scar
While covering a scar with a tattoo is a dreadful experience to begin with, some scars are more prone to damage than most, making this factor just as important as the ones mentioned above.
Scars that are vulnerable are usually in delicate areas, while scars that are resilient are usually surrounded by layers of skin that are thick.
For example, if you’re seeking to cover a scar near your ankle, neck, collarbone, and so on, take your time and allow them to heal. Failing to follow this instruction will land you in disadvantageous scenarios that might even involve a bloodbath.
Additionally, if the scar you’re planning to cover is of a serious injury, you should definitely take the same approach as the one mentioned right above this portion. For extra assistance, seek advice from a doctor before coming up with the groundwork of your tattoo.
What To Expect When Getting A Scar Tattoo
Before heading out for the tattoo parlor, set the bar as low as possible. Expect very little to make sure the final product leaves you feeling satisfied with the tattoo.
However, if you’re not really okay with the first approach, a good rule of thumb would be to build expectations based on the type of scar the artist will work with.
For instance, an amputation scar will be relatively easy to work with due to the smoothness of the surface that the area will contain, but will involve a lot of pain due to the delicacy and the sensitivity of the area.
In contrast to tattooing over an amputation scar, a keloid scar will be extremely challenging to work with. The artist might have to use all the tricks they have in their skillset to make sure the visuals make up for the uneven borders of the final design. In addition to the careful approach the artist will need to take, achieving a tattoo over a keloid scar is extremely time consuming, so make sure to clear up your schedule just in case.
Furthermore, covering stretch marks, surgery scars, and even scars on the stomach will highly likely put you in the same scenario. The final results will consist of a fine tattoo which probably won’t hurt as much. While the tattoo on the stretch mark or on the stomach will shrink based on the scar itself, a surgery scar will stay consistent in terms of size and visuals till eternity.
Bottom Line
All in all, we hope that this article helps you with coming to a decision about whether or not you should get a tattoo over your scar. While you obviously can get a tattoo over the gash, there are loads of things that shape up the final outcome. Just make sure you seek assistance from someone who’s experienced enough, are aware of the pain the whole procedure will come with, and are wary as well as prepared of any cynical aftermath that might happen. Most importantly, ensure that the final outcome allows you to feel more comfortable in your own skin.
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